Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Loch Haven Park

    4.8 (26 reviews)

    Loch Haven Park Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Loch Haven Park

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Ariel W.

    Loch Haven Park is 45 acre park situated between lakes Estelle, Rowena, and Formosa. The park started out in 1926 as land for the Loch Haven subdivision but plans for building were cancelled due to the Great Depression. After a failed attempt at starting a permanent fair on the land, the City of Orlando purchased the tax certificate in order to create a park. The land sat empty until 1953 when the park was finally created. All institutions opening in the park were required to be cultural. In 1955 the Garden Club opened followed by the Loch Haven Arts Center and Orlando Science Center in 1960 For years the park had a major road bisecting it and the cultural facilities were outdated. The firm of Frederick Halback redesigned the park by removing the road and separating vehicles from pedestrians. A new grand entrance was put in with a fountain. An 8 acre great lawn was created to stage cultural gatherings and festivals. Loch Haven Park has become the beautiful cultural heart of Orlando. Among the many cultural arts institutions located in Loch Have Park today are the Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Fire Museum, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Repatory Theater, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando Garden Club, rehearsal studio for the Orlando Ballet, and the Orlando Science Center. For even more culture, the park is home to the Fringe Festival the first two weeks of May every year. During the festival more than 100 music, theater, dance, and magic performances take place. The park contains paths for exercise and it contains many oak trees over a 100 years old including the Mayor which is older than the Constitution. Loch Haven is home to picnics, museums, lakes, sculptures.festivals, and children on field trips. Take a walk through the park and you might be excited by what you discover.

    Natures Playground
    Laura G.

    I enjoy strolling around the Loch Haven Park admiring the artwork, lakes and occasional visits from wildlife. There are three lakes, museums, two theaters, walking/jogging paths and plenty of parking. Pets are also welcome. They are open daily from 6am to 11 pm. The park host lots of outdoor festivals and activities throughout the year.

    Rachel M.

    This is our second time here. The first time was about a month ago for an Indie Fest, and this time was for a nice chill picnic. It was a perfect picnic spot and others thought so as well. Perfect space to spread out and have a nice time enjoying the fresh air with loved ones. The section we sat u see is in back of the Mennello Art Museum. There's ample parking when there's not a fest, and it's quite close to the park. It's dog friendly and there are dog poop bags and a garbage there as well. There are artistic statues and a pretty water view. I love the trees and the shade and the adirondack chairs to sit on as well. People walk, bike, and drive here. It's a great park nearby to different museums in downtown Orlando!

    Scott W.

    We stopped here today for a quick walk while in the area. This is a beautiful park with old oak trees, sculptures, and a paved walking path. I highly recommend grabbing your lunch to-go then stopping here to take a break from the chaotic workday.

    We got married here in 2014 and now take our children here to play :)
    Autumn S.

    I happen to be a big fan of this park for a few reasons but one of the biggest ones being that I got married here in 2014. It was a beautiful location for our wedding and a place we frequent with our children now. The Mayor tree is a sight to see so take your time to visit and enjoy the history you are receiving shade by. I love that there's plenty around for young and old... the science center is a must for kids nearby. Enjoy!

    Dennise H.

    Artlando: What a great event featuring many artists in the Central Florida area. This was our first time visiting this park but I love the surroundings of Florida hospital and the Orlando Science and Art Center. The park was easy accessible and there was free parking in the Florida Hospital garage. A short walk and a skip and you're there! Along the walking trail there were several tents of artists featuring their work. I wanted to take several picture but wanted to respect their work and not show on social media. My favorite features were of the black light canvas artwork. The artist painted with acrylics in a straight line abstract picture and then had nails along the rim of the canvas. He used white string which illuminated in the light causing a cool neon affect! Anyway, if you missed it, be on the look out for more festivities during the cooler months. We surely arrived at a later time, on purpose. It's hot out in these streets!

    Denna E.

    Loch Haven is one of my favorite parks to attend events in. It' beautiful and lends itself to hosting events. Centrally located and well taken care of. Loch Haven rests between Orlando Science Center, Orlando Shakes and Orlando Museum of Art. When there is a big event hosted, parking can be a challenge but usually easily found.

    Colleen B.

    Looking for the City's premier cultural park? Hit up Orlando Loch Haven Park. This amazing area is home to the OMA, Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando Fire Museum and the Orlando Garden Club. Can we say WOW, so many amazing things in one beautiful setting? I get a fuzzy feeling just driving around the block of this place, feels like I am in some fancy northern neighborhood and I love it. Also tons of organizations around town host their annual events place at this lovely location such as the Orlando International Fringe Festival, Target Family Theatre Festival, PlayFest, etc. Majestic oak trees are sprinkled throughout the lawn areas in the center of the Park complimenting the natural beauty the three lakes, Lake Estelle, Lake Rowena, and Lake Formosa deliver to the surroundings. Overall such a beauty of a place for Orlando to call a go-to local spot for relaxation, entertainment and community!

    Gracie M.

    Me and Gatsby, my super cute mini wiener dog, give this park five dog bones on bring Fido! It is not technically a dog park, so you have to keep your puppy on a leash, but there is lots to look at and sniff. One of the coolest parks we've been to in orlando. You can also get onto the urban hiking trail from here! I suggest parking at the Shakespeare's theater.

    The Sunset overlooking the lake is stunning!
    Ashley I.

    This is one of the most beautiful parks to just come and relax. The view is so beautiful with the water. I love all the shade the mossy trees provide. There's lots of wide open grass so it's perfect for sitting in the lawn chairs provided and reading or writing. You could play fetch with your dog or you can even lay out on a blanket with your loved one. A really quiet, peaceful park. They have also done events here before like the folk fest on Valentine's Day. I love this park!!!

    Enzo scoping things out

    See all

    Photo of Rohan D.
    381
    3656
    10789

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ariel W.
    4016
    6166
    108012

    6 years ago

    Helpful 77
    Thanks 0
    Love this 75
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Laura G.
    546
    2644
    48411

    4 years ago

    Helpful 80
    Thanks 0
    Love this 76
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 0
    Love this 15
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andi P.
    4533
    1418
    7453

    11 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Colleen B.
    1725
    1516
    10078

    16 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rhea P.
    2538
    2076
    2204

    13 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gigi G.
    19
    80
    42

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Ask the Community - Loch Haven Park

    Review Highlights - Loch Haven Park

    “Part of Loch Haven is the Orlando Shakespeare and Repertoire Theater, and the Orlando Science Center.”

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Parks 2,582 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Lake Eola Park - beacon of hope

    Lake Eola Park

    4.6(475 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    I was born in Orlando in 1961, so Lake Eola has been a part of my entire life. I rarely make it…read moredown here anymore, but I had an appointment near here and as I parked, I look at the park and the lake and made sure that I would spent some time after the meeting, and I am glad that I did. It is so beautiful here, a sanctuary in the middle of the hustle and bustle of downtown Orlando. I walked around the lake, people watching, enjoying the foliage, the trees, the wildlife, so serene and tranquil. If I lived downtown, I would be here every day. I highly recommend taking a trip here and getting away from the city for a few minutes- you will be glad you did.

    I've been going to Lake Eola on and off for about 30 years, and every time I come back I have such…read moremixed feelings about this place. I have beautiful memories here with my mother, my father, who has been gone for many years now, and my cousin, so I think that's part of why seeing this park now affects me as much as it does. I can still remember those different periods of my life here, but then I look at the lake and the wildlife and I keep thinking about how much better this place could be. I actually had to go look up the facts about Lake Eola because I started wondering if I was being unfair or if I was simply seeing it differently because I've known this place for so long. What I found was pretty surprising. Lake Eola has had serious water-quality problems going back decades. By the 1980s, pollution and debris were entering the lake with rainfall, and the lake eventually had to be de-mucked and cleaned in 1992. Today, it's an urban lake that receives stormwater from a large portion of downtown Orlando, which means everything washing off those streets and surrounding areas can ultimately make its way into the lake. What bothers me most isn't even the people walking around the park. It's the wildlife. There are swans, ducks, egrets, herons, fish, turtles and other animals living in and around this lake, and once you start paying attention to them, it's hard not to wonder what their environment is actually like. I see these beautiful animals swimming around, and then I look at the water they're swimming in and see the debris and the muck, and it really gets to me. Maybe I'm more sensitive to it because I've known this place for so long, but I can't just look at the swans anymore without looking at what's underneath them. Then all those memories come rushing back. All these different versions of my life that somehow happened around this same lake, and now I'm standing here decades later looking at that water, watching the wildlife swimming through it, and thinking about how much has changed and how much of this lake is still dealing with the same problems. And honestly, after all this time..... the City of Orlando needs to simply "DO BETTER"

    Photos
    Lake Eola Park - Night Light Time

    Night Light Time

    Lake Eola Park - Lake Eola Swan boat

    Lake Eola Swan boat

    Lake Eola Park - Bokeh

    See all

    Bokeh

    Lake Lorna Doone Park

    Lake Lorna Doone Park

    4.8(8 reviews)
    2.8 mi•John Young, Horizons West / West Orlando

    What a fantastic park! Located just outside of Camping World Stadium, I recently learned that Lake…read moreLorna Doone Park is one of the oldest parks in Orlando. It underwent a major renovation in 2021 where they added lots of amenities and made everything brand new. Even now, 5 years later, everything has been so well maintained and still feels like new. They have a free miniature golf putting course, an awesome splash pad, shaded playgrounds, basketball courts, and a nice nature walking path. You'll also find shaded picnic pavilions and a community garden. My son absolutely loves coming here. The parking lot can be a little tricky to find because my GPS using Google Maps never takes me to the right place. Don't let the location detour you from visiting. It's such a nice park and feels very safe.

    Lake Lorna Doone Park is one of the oldest parks in Orlando. It is just north of Camping World…read moreStadium. The neighborhood and the park is named after one of the earliest property owner's daughter's favorite novel, Lorna Doone, written by English author, Richard Doddridge Blackmore, published in 1869. Lake Lorna Doone was the site of the South's first integrated Little League Baseball game on August 9, 1955. The 1955 little league season was the first after US Supreme Court rulings had eliminated "separate but equal" conditions in the nation's schools and public parks. The Pensacola Jaycees were declared winners of their local district by Little League headquarters in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. When local officials would not allow them to play against the all-white teams they instead advanced to the Florida State Tournament which was held at Lake Lorna Doone Park. They ended up losing to host Orlando in the second round, 5-0 but they were welcomed by the hometown crowd and given encouragement. In 2021, 12 acre Lake Lorna Doone Park underwent an $8 million renovation. Added to the park was the nine hole Arnold Palmer Putting Experience, fitness stations, a playground, football fields, basketball courts, a splash pad and the Winnie Palmer Nature Trail. I especially liked the nature trail where I got to see native plants and wildlife. With the upgrades, this park now has all of the amenities needed to inspire a healthy, active lifestyle for the West Lakes families who live in this neighborhood and all who visit.

    Photos
    Lake Lorna Doone Park
    Lake Lorna Doone Park
    Lake Lorna Doone Park

    See all

    Blanchard Park

    Blanchard Park

    4.3(77 reviews)
    7.5 mi•East Orlando

    Blanchard park is a great place to enjoy nature! The trail is great for jogging, biking and walking…read moreyour dogs. Plenty of open fields and space to enjoy the outdoors.

    Explore Jay Blanchard Park: The Heart of East Orlando…read moreLooking for the best things to do in East Orlando? Whether you're already living in East Orlando or are considering buying a home in East Orlando, Jay Blanchard Park is a local treasure you can't miss. Located at 2451 N Dean Rd, Orlando, FL 32817, it's the perfect outdoor escape near UCF. What makes Blanchard Park special? The Little Econ Trail: Over 7 miles of paved, shaded trails for easy riding, running, or walking. Family Fun: 2 large shaded playgrounds with oak canopies and sunshades to keep the kids cool. Active Lifestyle: 6 tennis courts, beach volleyball, basketball, and fields for soccer or lacrosse. The YMCA: Home to the Blanchard Park YMCA for all your indoor fitness needs. Pro-Tips for Your Visit: Cookouts: Use the individual picnic tables and charcoal grills for a perfect family BBQ. Events: Check the Orange County Parks calendar for free movie nights in the park! Stay Safe: We love our Florida wildlife! Be mindful near the water's edge as alligators are common in the area. Thinking about buying a home in East Orlando? The Orlando zip code 32817 offers an incredible lifestyle with easy access to nature and city amenities. www.TestonTeam.com for full video walkthrough under News & Tips - Things to Do in Orlando

    Photos
    Blanchard Park
    Blanchard Park
    Blanchard Park

    See all

    Kelly Park - Last chance tube rental

    Kelly Park

    4.2(245 reviews)
    15.3 mi

    If I lived anywhere near here, we'd be at this spring every weekend! There were no crowds present…read moreduring our off-season visit on 9-25 and the water was still between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. That is how the spring is year-round. We paid a $5 vehicle entry fee to the park, brought our own tubes and stripped down to our swimwear before walking to the start of the run (Rock Springs Run). We found ourselves a slippery rock to launch from and away we went! The current is strong, so you fly through the run pretty quickly up until you reach the "spring head". There were lots of families just hanging out here, listening to music, picnicking and the like. Once you get past that part, the current picks up again. We saw fish, birds, otters, wild turkey and a turtle during our visit. We did not see any gators, thank God! It was so relaxing and serene (aside from a few Bluetooth speakers blasting some tunes). We didn't stay more than a couple of hours, having done the run several times. The park's facilities are meager. The concession stand isn't open during the off-season, the bathrooms were borderline gross, and the lockers were old, small, beat-up and you had to bring your own lock. We opted to cover the windows in our SUV and do our toweling down and changing there. As far as outdoor adventures go, you can't beat the fun you'll have here for $5/vehicle. The water is crystal clear, and you can just float the run if you'd like. Some people were snorkeling and digging for gems/crystals and shark teeth (not sure that there are any really there though). Good, clean fun for people of all ages.

    What a beautiful little gem!…read more I've seen Kelly Park - Rock Springs pop up on my Instagram and TikTok SO many times, but I kept reading that it gets PACKED during busy season. My husband and I celebrated 13 years together on September 29th, took the day off, and last minute decided to finally check it out. I'm SO glad we did. It ended up being the perfect way to celebrate our love. We did the lazy river THREE times, and it was honestly exactly what our sore muscles needed. The water was definitely cold, but in the best way! There were spots where the sun would shine through the trees and hit my skin, and it felt absolutely amazing. I also loved that you can find your own little spot along the river if you want to hang out for a while. We brought our own floaty and just relaxed. I didn't really swim, but I tried walking parts of the river and, for reference, I'm 5'1" and the water was around waist-deep for me most of the time. The park itself is HUGE, and because it was nearly empty when we went, it literally felt like we had the whole place to ourselves LOL. They have a concession area, although we didn't grab anything, and the bathrooms were clean. Admission was only $6, which felt like such a steal for the experience. And the best part? It's only about 30 minutes from home for me! So happy we found a new little local gem. Definitely excited to come back!

    Photos
    Kelly Park - Walkway to concessions. Cash only.

    Walkway to concessions. Cash only.

    Kelly Park
    Kelly Park

    See all

    Loch Haven Park - parks - Updated October 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...